Adelaide Hills

Jacob Stein is a third generation Mudgee winemaker, inheriting his vocation from his German ancestor, Johann who bought riesling cuttings when he migrated to Sydney in 1838.  

Riesling remains a passion with Stein’s Reserve Riesling winning a swathe of awards in recent years. Equally decorated are his shiraz and cabernet sauvignon with the wall of the cellar door attesting to their success.

An equal drawcard is the Pipeclay Pumphouse Restaurant where Andy Crestani crafts produce-driven dishes of honesty and integrity. Much of the meat comes from the property with Angus cattle, Dorper sheep and Berkshire pigs bred for the table. Add the quirky Motorbike Museum and it’s easy to see this is no everyday cellar door.

However, the wines remain the focus with riesling, semillon and gewürztraminer joined by a saignee rosé and Harvest Gold dessert wine and a solid collection of Mudgee reds. Verjuice and vinegar add a culinary touch. PETER BOURNE

OUTSTANDING WINE: 2014 Robert Stein Kinnear, A$80